EXPERIENCED ATTORNEY: DISTRICT I (BALTIMORE CITY) (Assistant Public Defender II & III)

Introduction

The Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) has multiple openings for experienced and zealous

litigators to serve as Assistant Public Defenders in our District I Baltimore City office. The Baltimore City

office is a large urban Public Defender office with 200+ employees providing client-centered

representation to individuals charged with misdemeanors and felonies in Baltimore City. The attorney in

this position will combine their demonstrated commitment with their strong and zealous litigation skills to

provide exceptional representation on behalf of their clients. We are committed to building a culturally

diverse staff and strongly encourage people historically underrepresented in the practice of law to apply.

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At MOPD we use our legal education and experience to fight for justice and fairness, no matter what and

we refuse to remain silent in the midst of human suffering. Our unique talents, identities, educational

backgrounds, and perspectives guide us in representing our clients. We stand up against prejudice,

systemic racism, and inequity in all of the spaces we occupy. MOPD seeks candidates who will join us in

providing compassionate, competent, zealous, and client-centered representation to all of our clients.

Learn more about our mission and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

GRADE

ASTD22; ASTD21

LOCATION OF POSITION

Baltimore City, MD

Main Purpose of Job

OVERVIEW OF THE POSITION:

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The positions require exceptional trial skills, innovative thinking, investigative skills, and the ability to work

independently in managing an active felony caseload. Attorneys work in conjunction with social workers,

investigators, experts, and core staff in a team-oriented environment. Attorneys must be able to balance a

client-centered approach to representation with advocacy to address systemic inequity and the collateral

consequences that lead to deeper system involvement. Positions are available in Baltimore, Maryland.

Attorneys should be available to start within one month after receiving an offer.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

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â Represent clients in all stages of their criminal case including bail hearings, motions hearings, and trial,

and post-trial hearings.

â Ensures clients are consistently heard and respected.

â Conducts legal research and analysis including changes in laws, legislation, procedural rules, court

decisions, and case precedents in preparation for trial and to determine/anticipate legal problems and

propose resolutions.

â Drafts and prepares reports, memoranda in opposition, briefs, motions, and correspondence for clients.

â Effectively and compassionately communicate with clients, team members, colleagues, and service

providers to ensure optimal outcomes for clients.

â Counsels and advises clients on changes in law, court decisions, and legal issues.

â Negotiates with prosecutors, judges, and other stakeholders to establish agreements to resolve cases

favorably for the client.

â Competently, independently, and resourcefully manage a full caseload.

â Continuously seek professional development by attending various training sessions.

â Other duties as assigned by the Public Defender.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

CORE COMPETENCIES AND REQUIREMENTS:

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â Demonstrated commitment to serving communities who have been pushed to theâ¯margins.

â Excellent research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.

â Clear dedication to upending systemic racism, prejudice, and unfairness in the criminalâ¯legal system.

â Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with people from different

backgrounds and lived experiences.

â Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, diverse, team-oriented environment.

â Exceptional organizational, legal, and administrative skills necessary to handle a highâ¯caseload.

â Criminal jury trial experience required. Felony (cases involving complex issues and/orâ¯where clients are

facing the possibility of a life sentence) jury trial experience is preferred.

â Active membership in good standing in the Maryland Bar or Bar of another state.

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Attorneys barred in another state must become members of the Maryland Bar within 18â¯months of their start date with MOPD.

BENEFITS

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

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Salary is dependent on experience and salary rules will apply to State of Maryland employees.

This would be a lateral transfer for any internal candidates applying.

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Assistant Public Defender II- starting at $98,840.00 (Grade 21: Step 08)

Assistant Public Defender III- starting at $109,794.00 (Grade 22: Step 10)

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Please visit the State of Maryland Employeeâsâ¯pageâ¯to review benefit information.

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

HOW TO APPLY:

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If you wish to be considered, pleaseâ¯click hereâ¯to fill out the application and upload the following

documents in one PDF attachment through the Resume Tab of the Maryland State Government Job

Openings: (1) a current resume, (2) a cover letter, (3) a list of four professional references, and (4) a

writing sample no longer than fifteen (15) pages.

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Incomplete applications will not be considered.

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Assistant Public Defenders are full-time employees and cannot engage in the private practice of law while

in this position. MD Code, Criminal Procedure Art., Section 16-203(d)(2).

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As a State agency, the Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) is an affirmative action and equal

opportunity employer. MOPD is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals without regard to

race, color, religion, sex, physical or mental disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national

origin, veteran status, or genetic information.

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All applicants must be able to communicate with clients and visitors and possess the ability to complete

tasks in a fast-paced work environment. Applicants must be able to work in various positions and travel to

various courtrooms, office environments, and detention facilities throughout the state. MOPD is further

committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities

in employment, its services, programs, and activities by modifying or adjusting the job application process

or the job or work environment to make reasonable accommodations to the known applicant or employee

to enable the applicant or employee be considered for the position they desire; to perform the essential

functions of the position in question; or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment as are

enjoyed by other similarly situated employees without disabilities, unless the accommodation imposes an

undue hardship.

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Applicants must be able to operate a computer and other office equipment. Applicants must have access

to a motor vehicle or be able to navigate public transportation. If a reasonable accommodation is needed,

please contact Tawanda Jackson, Human Resources Supervisor, at 410-767-8503 or

tawandal.jackson@maryland.gov.